Despite the shared belief in the declining value of college degrees, non-Black Gen Z remains more committed to traditional 4-year university education, while Black Gen Z is more likely to explore alternative educational paths to prioritize financial stability and family obligations.
BLACK GEN Z
- Many are pursuing or have completed higher education, with a mix of community colleges, trade schools, and 4-year universities.
- Believe that college degrees are losing their value in society, with alternative paths to success gaining popularity.
- Some express financial concerns and the need to prioritize work or family obligations over education.
Non-BLACK GEN Z
- Most are currently pursuing or have completed higher education, primarily at 4-year universities.
- Recognize the changing value of college degrees but still believe in their importance for certain careers.
Oh, I think some people of this generation are moving away from attending college or university because everything now is kind of, like, convenient, and you can kind of make money in more convenient, less stressful, and less time-consuming ways than before.”
Right now, I'm not pursuing higher education. I did graduate high school, but I feel like college could take up a lot of money and a lot of time for me. Four years is a long time, and I could spend that time on music and really blow up. I could gain potential from pursuing music rather than sitting in college for four years learning about it. Why not just do it?”
It's much easier for you to get certified and get a job that pays more than to spend four years in college, come up with debt, and get a job that pays less.”